Autumn has passed. The colorful array of leaves have fallen and turned brown, now trodden underfoot or sunk to the bottom of the lakes. The grasses have faded to brown. Yet, left is the evergreen trees and bushes so familiar to Christmas time. Such deep, rich shades of green are often decorated with nature's ornaments: the artful pine cone, the chandelier-like mistletoe, brilliant berries of red, sometimes blue, or the nuts of varied earthy shades and shapes. Before the memory of the green summer and colorful fall has faded, the holiday season brings the evergreens indoors and decorates the world with a rainbow of colors.
Hanukkah and Christmas were filled with faith, family and fun.The end of 2014 has given me extra special memories to hold onto for the rest of my life. But, sadly, the holidays have passed. While many have taken down their Christmas trees and lights, mine are still up. I usually keep them up for a couple of extra weeks to hold onto a little of the magic as the routine of the new year, a busy schedule and the dead of winter take hold of me.
Yet, in the midst of sometimes bitter cold, winter storms and boredom, I look to the evergreens. Thoughts of mountain pines--or perhaps palm trees along a golden beach--bring a respite from the mundane.
Lori Vidak 1-8-15
